Exploros | Spindletop and the Oil Industry

Spindletop and the Oil Industry

Students first take a poll of items that they think are made from petrochemicals. Then they watch a video and read about the discovery of oil at Spindletop. Next they explain how the oil and gas industry contributed to the industrialization of Texas. Finally they examine three renewable energy sources being developed in Texas.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

Overview

In this experience, students first take a poll of items that they think are made from petrochemicals. Then they watch a video and read about the discovery of oil at Spindletop. Next they explain how the oil and gas industry contributed to the industrialization of Texas. Finally they examine three renewable energy sources being developed in Texas.

If you have access to leveled readers about the discovery of oil or work in the oil and gas industry, assign them to the students in parallel to this experience.

Estimated duration: 45-55 minutes

Vocabulary words:

amateur
drill
gusher
investor
assembly
synthetic
transmission
extraction
alternative
innovation

Objectives

Explain the significance of the discovery of oil at Spindletop in 1901.
Describe some of the earliest uses for oil.
Explain how the oil industry contributed to the industrialization of Texas.

Engage

On January 10, 1901, Anthony Lucas was drilling near the Texas Gulf Coast when he hit oil. It blew out of the ground and sprayed 150 feet into the air. This moment changed the Texas economy, which shifted from cotton and cattle to oil and gas. In this experience, you will learn about Spindletop and the oil and gas industry in Texas.

Objectives

Explain the significance of the discovery of oil at Spindletop in 1901.
Describe some of the earliest uses for oil.
Explain how the oil industry contributed to the industrialization of Texas.

Lucas Gusher at Spindletop

Petrochemicals are products that are made from oil and natural gas. Ever since the first big oil gusher at Spindletop in 1901, Texas has been a world leader in the petrochemical industry.

Which of the following items do you think are made from petrochemicals?

A) plastics
B) nail polish
C) ink
D) football helmets
E) transparent tape
F) synthetic yarn

The Student Pack contains a link to a much longer list of petrochemical products.

Ask students if they are surprised by any of the items on the list. Petrochemicals are a basic resource for many synthetic materials.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.